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ExxonMobil Accused of Misleading Public on Plastics Recycling, Lawsuits Claim

California and environmental groups allege ExxonMobil knew plastics recycling was ineffective, filing lawsuits for deceit.
Photo by Bill Varie/Getty Images

The State of California and environmental groups including the Sierra Club say the petrochemical giant always knew recycling wouldn’t work

Photo by Bill Varie/Getty Images

For 50 years, the plastics industry misled the public about the recyclability of plastic, a “campaign of deception” that sidestepped regulation and increased profits while causing toxic plastic pollution, according to lawsuits filed by the California attorney general and four environmental groups.

Targeting the world’s largest maker of single-use plastic polymers, the suits name ExxonMobil as the defendant, along with several industry front groups. The lawsuits follow a 2022 investigation by California Attorney General Robert Bonta and separate probes by the Sierra Club, the Surfrider Foundation, Heal the Bay, and San Francisco Baykeeper.

During a press conference, Bonta criticized ExxonMobil for increasing single-use plastic production while falsely claiming recyclability. He stated that the company knew recycling disposable plastics was either technically challenging or too expensive. Bonta also dismissed “advanced recycling” as impractical and expensive, recycling only 1 percent or less of plastic waste.

“The company has propped up sham solutions, manipulated the public, and lied to consumers,” Bonta said. “It’s time ExxonMobil pays the price for its deceit.”

Bonta added, “Plastic contaminates our drinking water, strangles wildlife, and blights landscapes. Microplastics have been found in our lungs, maternal and placental tissue, breast milk, and blood. It’s time ExxonMobil is held accountable.”

A central premise of the lawsuits is that in the 1970s and 1980s, the false promise of recyclability persuaded the public and policymakers to accept disposable plastics, benefiting industries like dairies and breweries that previously reused glass bottles. The shift to plastics offloaded disposal costs to taxpayers.

A campaign blaming plastic pollution on consumers, epitomized by the “Crying Indian” advertisement, further distracted from corporate responsibility. The lawsuits argue that plastic recycling was always a sham, citing industry reports and internal documents linked to ExxonMobil.

“The company has brainwashed everyone into thinking that plastic recycling works and it’s good for the planet,” said Segal Choksi-Chugh of San Francisco Baykeeper.

The lawsuits reference a report by the Climate Integrity Project, The Fraud of Plastic Recycling, revealing that only 5 to 6 percent of single-use plastics are recycled in the US. The report claims the “chasing arrows” recycling symbol was an industry marketing gimmick.

The lawsuits aim to hold ExxonMobil accountable with potentially billions of dollars in damages. If successful, the funds could re-educate consumers, clean up plastic pollution, and develop new materials to replace unrecyclable plastics.

The environmental groups seek an injunction to prohibit single-use plastic products. “You have to stop the problem at its source, which is the production of single-use plastics,” said Niall McCarthy, attorney for the environmental groups.

ExxonMobil responded by blaming the public and government for recycling issues, stating, “For decades, California officials have known their recycling system isn’t effective. They failed to act, and now they seek to blame others. Advanced recycling works.”

Other environmental groups praised the lawsuits. “Petrochemical companies have lied about plastic recyclability for years, with dire consequences,” said Julie Teel Simmonds of the Center for Biological Diversity. “Only bold actions like those of Attorney General Bonta can stop Big Oil and the plastics industry from telling lies to keep making harmful products we don’t need.”

More stories about:

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Original Story at www.sierraclub.org

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COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024